Turkey: Ancient Cultures of Eastern Anatolia

Turkey: Ancient Cultures of Eastern Anatolia

For centuries the eastern part of Anatolia has been a crossroads of many different cultures. Hittites, Greeks, Romans, Armenians, Seljuks and Ottomans all have left their mark. The giant sculpted gods of Nemrud Dag, sitting on top of a Taurus peak, are the undisputed highlight. But there are many lesser known treasures, such as the Seljuk cemetery of Ahlat and the Armenian cathedral on Akdamar Island in Lake Van.

The enthroned figure of Christ is holding a book of Gospels in his left hand while his right hand is raised in blessing. Relief adorning the southern facade of the 10th century Armenian Cathedral of the Holy Cross on Akdamar, a small island in Lake Van. Photo Mick Palarczyk.